The Detroit Lions that take the field this fall are expected to look noticeably different from the team that wrapped up the 2025 regular season with a win in Chicago against Ben Johnson and the Bears.

Detroit currently projects to be roughly $10 million over the salary cap, which means general manager Brad Holmes will need to make some strategic financial decisions to bring the team back into compliance.

One of the biggest questions centers around the Lions’ standout backfield duo of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery—widely known as “Sonic and Knuckles.” Since being paired together, the two made NFL history by becoming the first teammates to total at least 2,000 yards from scrimmage and 20 touchdowns within their first 25 games across the 2023 and 2024 seasons. With cap pressures mounting, however, there has been speculation about whether their partnership could be nearing its end.

While speaking with Chris Simms during Super Bowl Radio Row, Montgomery made it clear how much he values sharing the backfield with Gibbs.

“Great teams don’t often have the luxury of two high-level backs,” Montgomery said. “Jahmyr is arguably the best running back in the league, and I know I bring a lot to the table as well. Whenever I get my opportunities, I’m going to make the most of them.”

He also emphasized the importance of their unselfish approach and what the pairing means to him personally.

“Having both of us together and being willing to put the team first—that’s special,” he added. “It’s something I don’t take for granted.”

Montgomery was also asked about seeing his workload decrease during the 2025 season and whether he felt Gibbs was taking opportunities away from him.

“I wouldn’t frame it like that,” Montgomery said. “It’s not about dealing with anything or having touches taken. When you have two guys like this, everyone wants to contribute. I take pride in being a great teammate, and I’ll do whatever helps us move forward. At the same time, I want to be part of that success.”

Those comments alone may give Lions fans reason to believe Montgomery could remain in Detroit beyond this season.

Brad Holmes Addresses Montgomery’s Outlook

Holmes recently discussed Montgomery’s future and acknowledged that conversations will need to happen, while also leaving the door open to other possibilities.

“I have a ton of respect for him as a player,” Holmes said. “He deserves to be in a role where his strengths are fully utilized. Ideally, that’s here—but if it can’t be, you want to see him land in a place that makes the most sense for him.”

Montgomery carries a cap hit of $8,370,833 in 2026, followed by a $10,245,833 charge in 2027.

Production Dipped During 2025 Campaign

From a statistical standpoint, the 2025 season was a down year for Montgomery. He posted career-low marks in rushing attempts, yards per carry, and total yards from scrimmage.

Originally selected by the Chicago Bears in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft (73rd overall), Montgomery joined the Lions in 2023 on a three-year, $18 million deal. He later signed a two-year extension worth $18.25 million.